YKK Corporation, headquartered in Japan, has introduced a concept version of its premium EXCELLA® series, recognized as the YKK sustainable zipper. This new iteration features zipper tape manufactured from nonwoven fabric sheets created by fiberizing used clothing and other recycled textile materials. The development is the result of a high-level collaboration between fashion designer Yuima Nakazato, Seiko Epson Corporation, and YKK. The innovative component was showcased as a material for the “INFERNO” Couture Collection, a highlight of sustainable fashion France, during its unveiling in Paris on July 8, 2026.
Collaborative Innovation for Textile Circularity
The project utilized Epson’s Dry Fiber Technology to transform textile waste into nonwoven fabric sheets, marking the first time such materials have been applied to zipper tape. Dry Fiber Technology allowed for the creation of these sheets for the first time in this specific application, overcoming previous manufacturing hurdles. Due to the unique properties of the material, the engineering team conducted rigorous studies to ensure secure element attachment. This included selecting a slider specifically designed for the rigidity of the nonwoven fabric zipper to maintain the high standards and ease of use associated with the EXCELLA® line. The integration of this technology into sustainable fashion France represents a practical step toward material upcycling in the luxury sector.
Technical Advancement in Sustainable Fasteners
This initiative addresses the global challenge of textile waste and the circular economy Japan is actively pursuing. Designer Nakazato’s exploration of used clothing management, particularly regarding the volume of garments entering countries like Kenya, served as a catalyst for the project. By supporting the circular economy Japan, YKK continues to build upon its existing initiatives, such as the NATULON® Fiber Sourced™ products which utilize recycled textile materials. By integrating this YKK sustainable zipper into luxury fashion, the company aims to leverage insights from this nonwoven fabric zipper development to meet the evolving needs of global customers. YKK intends to use the knowledge gained from this project to further enhance the value of its premium fastener series while promoting the reuse of clothing and materials that would otherwise remain unused.
